On 28–29 September 2026, in Toronto, Canada, the Parliamentary Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Dace Melbārde, will represent Latvia at the conference “Pathways to Peace: Second International Conference on Returning Ukrainian Children, Detained Civilians, and Prisoners of War”.
The conference is organised by Canada, Ukraine and Norway. Officials from approximately 60 countries and 10 international organisations are expected to attend.
The conference will focus on the humanitarian consequences of Russia’s aggression against Ukraine, including the unlawful deportation and forcible transfer of Ukrainian children, the unlawful detention of civilians, and violations of international humanitarian law against Ukrainian prisoners of war. The discussions will address practical solutions for the safe return, rehabilitation and reintegration of those affected, ensuring humanitarian access and strengthening international cooperation. Participants will also assess the progress made so far and set priorities for future international actions.
During the conference, Dace Melbārde will deliver Latvia’s national statement and participate in a thematic discussion on ensuring humanitarian access and the safe return and reintegration of Ukrainian prisoners of war.
As part of the conference, the Parliamentary Secretary will hold bilateral meetings with officials from several countries. In addition to the conference, the Parliamentary Secretary will meet with representatives of the Latvian diaspora in Canada.